December holidays are among the most searched seasonal topics in the United Kingdom. From Christmas celebrations and school breaks to festive travel and winter events, December marks one of the busiest and most commercially significant periods of the year.
Whether you are planning family time, booking travel, organising events, or simply checking official holiday dates, this guide explains everything you need to know about December holidays in the UK.
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Official December Public Holidays in the UK
The United Kingdom has two official bank holidays in December. These dates apply across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, although substitute days may vary when they fall on a weekend.
Christmas Day – 25 December
Christmas Day is a nationwide bank holiday. If 25 December falls on a weekend, a substitute weekday is declared a bank holiday. Most offices, banks and government services close on this day.
Boxing Day – 26 December
Boxing Day is also a bank holiday. Traditionally associated with charitable giving and sporting events, it is now equally known for retail sales and family gatherings.
Key points about December bank holidays:
- Two statutory bank holidays: 25 and 26 December
- Substitute days apply if holidays fall on weekends
- Schools and many workplaces close for an extended period
- Public transport operates on reduced schedules
UK School December Holidays
For families, the December school holidays are just as important as official bank holidays. Most schools in England and Wales close around mid to late December and reopen in early January.
Typical school holiday period:
- Break begins around 18–22 December
- Schools reopen during the first week of January
- Dates vary slightly by local authority
Parents planning childcare, travel, or family activities should confirm dates with their local council or school directly.
Popular December Celebrations in the UK
Christmas Celebrations
Christmas is the centrepiece of December holidays in the UK. Celebrations include:
- Decorating homes with Christmas trees and lights
- Attending church services
- Family meals featuring roast turkey, stuffing and Christmas pudding
- Gift exchanges
Retail, hospitality and travel industries see significant spikes in demand during this period.
New Year’s Eve Preparations
Although New Year’s Eve falls on 31 December and New Year’s Day is in January, preparations begin well before the end of the month. Cities such as London, Edinburgh and Manchester host major countdown events and fireworks displays.
Hanukkah
In some years, Hanukkah overlaps with December holidays. Jewish communities across the UK celebrate with candle lighting, family gatherings and community events.
Best UK Destinations During December Holidays
December is one of the busiest travel months in the UK. Popular destinations combine festive atmosphere with winter attractions.
London
London offers:
- Christmas markets
- Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park
- West End festive shows
- Seasonal shopping on Oxford Street and Regent Street
Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations attract international visitors. The city hosts markets, concerts and large-scale New Year events.
Bath and York
Historic cities such as Bath and York are known for traditional Christmas markets and atmospheric winter settings.
December Holiday Travel Advice
Travel demand increases sharply during December holidays. Whether travelling domestically or internationally, early planning is essential.
Book Early
Flights, train tickets and accommodation prices rise significantly in late November and December. Advance booking can reduce costs and increase availability.
Check Transport Schedules
Public transport services are reduced on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Some rail routes may not operate at all on 25 December.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Winter weather conditions, including frost, snow and fog, can disrupt road and air travel.
Retail and Shopping Trends in December
December holidays drive one of the most important retail periods of the year. Consumer behaviour typically includes:
- Gift purchasing
- Food and drink shopping
- Seasonal home décor purchases
- Boxing Day sales participation
Online shopping continues to grow year-on-year, with many retailers offering extended delivery options and click-and-collect services.
Working During December Holidays
Not all sectors close during December holidays. Healthcare, hospitality, retail and emergency services remain operational.
If you are employed in the UK, important considerations include:
- Holiday pay entitlements
- Overtime rates on bank holidays
- Annual leave booking deadlines
- Employer shutdown policies
Employees should check employment contracts and company HR policies to understand their rights and obligations.
Planning Family Activities in December
Families often look for structured activities during the school break. Popular options include:
- Ice skating rinks
- Christmas pantomimes
- Santa experiences
- Winter countryside walks
- Museum and gallery visits
Advance booking is recommended, particularly for ticketed events in major cities.
International Travel During December Holidays
Many UK residents travel abroad during December holidays, particularly to:
- European Christmas market destinations
- Winter sun locations
- Ski resorts
- Visiting family overseas
Travellers should ensure passports are valid, check visa requirements where applicable, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Financial Planning for December Holidays
December is traditionally one of the highest-spending months for UK households. Effective budgeting helps prevent financial pressure in January.
Practical strategies include:
- Setting a gift budget
- Monitoring discretionary spending
- Taking advantage of early promotions
- Avoiding high-interest credit where possible
Frequently Asked Questions About December Holidays
Are 25 and 26 December always bank holidays?
Yes. If either date falls on a weekend, a substitute weekday becomes the official bank holiday.
Do all businesses close during December holidays?
No. Essential services, many retailers and hospitality venues remain open, although with reduced hours.
When do schools reopen after December holidays?
Most schools reopen in the first week of January, but exact dates vary by local authority.
Final Thoughts
December holidays in the UK combine official bank holidays, school breaks, religious celebrations and major retail activity. For families, businesses and travellers, early planning is critical to manage demand, costs and availability.
By understanding key dates, transport changes and seasonal trends, you can make informed decisions whether you are organising travel, planning events, budgeting for expenses or simply preparing for the festive season.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always confirm dates with official government and local authority sources before making final arrangements.